KUCHING: The State Disaster Management Committee (SDMC) has instructed all authorities at the division and district levels to be on standby in facing the upcoming dry season and hot weather expected in the near future.
Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas said the National Disaster Management Agency (NADMA) had announced that the Northeast Monsoon is expected to end on Mar 29.
“We have just been informed by NADMA that the Northeast Monsoon will be ending soon, while the dry and hot season is expected to follow.
“Therefore, SDMC has directed all authorities at the division and district levels to be prepared to face the dry season and hot weather,” he said.
He said this when met by reporters after attending the Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebration hosted by the Deputy Minister in the Sarawak Premier’s Department (Coordinator for Regional Development Agencies, Kuching North City Hall and Islamic Affairs) at a hotel here today (Mar 25).
He added that the dry season could potentially lead to incidents such as forest fires and water supply shortages in certain areas.
“Some areas, particularly in Kuala Baram, have previously experienced forest fires, while other locations may face water supply issues.
“In high-risk areas like Kuala Baram, we are identifying infrastructure needs and working with relevant departments to monitor potential hotspots,” he said.
He further explained that monitoring efforts have also been expanded to areas prone to fires, including peatland areas, so that immediate action can be taken if any fire occurs.
“These measures are important to ensure that fires do not spread widely and that all open burning incidents can be effectively controlled,” he added.
Meanwhile, he advised the public not to carry out open burning that could trigger fires.
“With vigilance and cooperation from all parties, we can reduce the risk of fires and ensure collective safety,” he said.
